the ending of an era.

This is so surreal.
I'm standing at the front desk of the University Park Marriott this morning, for the last time. Three years. THREE years have been spent here. I've grown and learned so much. I've made long lasting friendships and connections.

I will miss laughing uncontrollably with my coworkers.
I will miss seeing interactions between the many military workers staying here and the guests that graciously thank them for their service.
I will miss being star struck when meeting famous people (like Karl Malone, Joss Stone, Al Green, Hellogoodbye, Fleet Foxes, Kyle Whittingham and all the trainers/coaches, Willie Nelson, Ed Catmull, Erin Andrews, etc. ect.)
I will miss free lunches everyday.
I will miss my travel benefits (sorry friends!)
I will miss getting free concert and event tickets.
I will miss the many personalities of the Utah football team.
I will miss getting yelled at by tempermental guests for a variety of reasons that are not my fault. Oh wait, no I won't.

There are a plethora of reasons I had a hard time deciding to leave this wonderful hotel. If I had the time and patience I could list another 20 right now. BUT I have to be honest, I'm ready to move on. I accepted a position at a large law firm in Cottonwood Heights. I'll be the receptionist there and once I feel comfortable, they will be adding some legal assisting responsibilities. I'm really excited! I know it sounds funny to be excited being someone's secretary, essentially, but this law firm just feels right. When I interviewed with a few of the senior partners and attorneys I could not have felt more accepted and comfortable. I know this new job will bring on many opportunities.

Tomorrow, I am leaving Mike to work hard (his choice) and I'm going home with my sister for 6 days! Well, it's not really "home" to me, but rather, the new place my parents moved to. Pittsburgh, PA. I can't wait to see their new digs and the beautiful area. We're traveling up to Toronto Canada and Niagara Falls for a few days... This couldn't be better timed!

I have so much to look forward to these next couple weeks.
Wish me luck on some new adventures!

little bambinos

EXCUUUUUUUUSE ME! What is in the water people?! 4, that's FOUR, of my friends have announced that they are pregnant in the past 6 days. I remember when it was marriage season and loads of my friends had weddings around the same time. It's hard to believe that we've already moved on to baby season.

I'm going to be honest. All these announcements are making it very hard for me to wait much longer. I love love love babies and little kids. I wish someone would've told me that the goal was January-March 2012... I want my first bambino to grow up with some friends, hello!
I'm thrilled for all my friends that are expecting little ones.
It makes me wonder... when should it be my turn? Eeeeek.

Sorry. I had to include this picture. It cracks me up!

stepping back

Last night I attended the beautiful wedding dinner of Mike's cousin, Nate.
Our table of 8 was full...
Mike, myself, Eric (Mike's brother), Matt (Mike's brother) & his wife Brooke & son Blake and Adam (Mike's brother) & his wife Tara.

EVERY.SINGLE.PERSON named above is "a talker".

Being among so many of his/our siblings at the same time, I realized something. I've always been the outgoing, talkative person to take the reins in any social situation.

But when I'm around the Nelson fam, it isn't so.
I like to take the backseat and just listen.
I know that I'm not a different person around them but rather taking a break and letting them be my entertainment. Make sense?

It's funny. I never dreamt I'd marry into a family more extroverted and social than my own... but I did and I love it.